Agriculture contributes significantly to Laguna Province’s coffers. Promoting the industry in the province requires promoting science and technology-based production.
Toward this end, PCARRD Executive Director (ED) Patricio S. Faylon presented the Council’s research and development (R&D) program for the agriculture sector during the Farmers Forum and Consultation in Aid of Legislation held recently at the Cultural Center, Provincial Capitol Compound, Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
Joining Faylon in the forum were other experts from the International Rice Research Institute, Philippine Rice Research Institute, University of the Philippines Los Baños, and Department of Science and Technology IV-A. They discussed how the farmers and governing bodies in Laguna can address different issues and concerns on agriculture.
Faylon then briefed the participants on PCARRD's role in providing central direction on R&D for agriculture, forestry and natural resources (AFNR) sectors. He also explained how the Council provides catalytic and bridging funds to priority R&D areas; and monitors and evaluates all publicly-funded R&D programs on AFNR.
The PCARRD ED also highlighted the Council’s banner programs that improve income opportunities through tech transfer modalities such as the Techno Gabay Program (TGP). TGP provides science-based information and technology services to end-users in the AFNR sectors like the farmers in Laguna.
Faylon also briefed the participants on PCARRD’s degree and non-degree training programs to enhance R&D capability and governance of its network.
Faylon likewise informed the farmers about the services provided by the Farmers Information and Technology Services as a one-stop information shop. The FITS offer various information and technologies generated by researchers and scientists all over the country for the benefit of the AFNR sectors.
The Office of the Vice-Governor and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Laguna spearheaded the forum. It aims to identify and discuss specific farmer problems and to draft resolutions if necessary in aid of legislative measures that would promote the agriculture industry in the province.